Laser spay and traditional spay methods both have benefits and drawbacks. Understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision. Here, our Denver vets discuss laser spay and traditional spay treatments, including advantages and disadvantages of each.
Laser Spay
A laser spay is a modern surgical procedure that uses a laser to make incisions instead of a scalpel. This technique is relatively new and has gained popularity for its perceived benefits.
Traditional Spay
Traditional spaying is the conventional method in which a veterinarian uses a scalpel to make incisions. This technique has been used for many years and is well-established in veterinary medicine.
Benefits & Disadvantages of Laser vs Traditional Spay
Below, we'll compare laser spaying versus traditional spaying.
Laser Spaying Cats & Dogs
In laser surgeries, veterinarians use hot lasers instead of traditional scalpels. Some veterinarians believe that using a laser during surgery helps reduce the risk of infection and speeds up recovery time. The laser cauterizes blood vessels by vaporizing cells and " cutting" through tissues.
Many vets feel that the benefits of laser spaying are:
- Decreased levels of pain in the immediate postoperative period.
- Reduced bleeding due to the cauterization of blood vessels as the laser beam cuts through the tissues.
- Decreased risk of infection due to the superheating of the tissues at the incision site, (helps destroy bacteria present during surgery).
- Less swelling at the surgical site.
Using lasers instead of a scalpel can provide surgeons with great precision. However, like traditional surgery, laser surgery carries risks. While lasers may cause less pain than scalpels, laser surgery still has the potential to be painful and may result in hemorrhage, although this is rare. Laser procedures are also generally more expensive, and not all veterinary clinics offer laser spaying.
Traditional Spaying for Cats & Dogs
Scalpels are used for many procedures, and vets are skilled at using them. It's important to note that spaying is one of the most common veterinary surgeries. Vets typically get a great deal of experience performing spaying procedures.
Benefits of traditional spay include:
- Readily available at most veterinary hospitals.
- Often costs less than laser spaying.
- Proven to be a safe technique that most veterinarians are skilled in performing.
Hemorrhage is uncommon when a skilled veterinary surgeon spays a pet. The drawbacks of traditional spaying can result in increased pain and discomfort, longer recovery time, and a higher risk of infection.
The Best Approach for Your Pet
The decision between laser spay and traditional spay depends on several factors, such as your budget, your pet's health, and the procedure's availability in your area. Laser spaying might be the better option if you want a procedure with potentially less pain and faster recovery, and are willing to pay a higher price. However, if cost is a major concern and you prefer a well-established method, traditional spay remains a reliable choice.
In balance, the two approaches are very similar and the best spay technique for your dog is the one offered by your trusted veterinary clinic.
Helping Your Pet Recover From Spay Surgery
Whether you choose to have your pet spayed with a laser or traditionally, your pet will need some time to recover.
Here are tips for a safe and comfortable recovery:
- Provide your pet with a quiet place to recover indoors and away from other animals.
- Reduce your pet's activity level for about two weeks following surgery, or as long as your veterinarian recommends.
- Prevent your pet from licking the incision site. Licking could cause an infection. A veterinary 'cone' or a post-surgical t-shirt can help prevent this.
- Do not bathe your pet or allow them to swim for at least ten days after surgery.
- Check the incision site daily to monitor healing and watch for early signs of infection.
What complications constitute an emergency?
If you notice any redness, swelling, or discharge at the surgery site, or if the incision has opened up, Be sure to contact your vet emergency vet in Denver if your pet is lethargic, has a decreased appetite, is vomiting, has diarrhea, or if you have any other concerns following their spay surgery.
Whatever type of spay surgery you choose for your pet, remember that the overall benefits of spaying far outweigh the risks involved. If you are concerned about the risks of spaying your female pet, contact your vet for further information and their recommendations on which type of spaying is right for your pet.
Is laser neutering an option for male dogs?
Yes, some veterinary hospitals offer laser neutering for male dogs, to remove the testicles and prevent reproduction.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
